There are few things in life that are more exhilarating than hitting the open road on your motorcycle. The skill that it takes to maneuver through traffic and make tight turns while going at high speeds makes it a blood pumping and intimate experience. Taking your bike on road trips is a way to learn more about yourself, your bike, and the people you ride with.
If this is your first time going on a road trip or long-distance ride then you are in for a journey that you will always remember. However, there are things that you want to remember before you even hit the road. If you fail to prepare then you will find yourself making the wrong type of memories. Here is a short guide to help you make sure that you are ready for your first road trip.
Get your bike in working order
Before you hit the road for the long haul for the first time, make sure that your bike is ready. This may seem like an elementary thing to remember, but you don't know how many motorcycle batteries have given up mid-trip. If you're riding with experienced roadies, then any rookie mistakes that you make will serve as great comic relief.
Go over the basics: check your tires, change your oil, test your battery, and make sure the tension on your chain is good. If you've had the bike long enough to really break it in, but haven't had any maintenance done, now's the time. Change your brake pads, spark plugs, and if you're not a bike expert, take it to one to make sure that your bike is running at an optimal level.
Bring the little things that make a big difference
Taking your first road trip is an accomplishment, and you should reward yourself for it. If you have not gotten yourself any new riding gear in a while, then now is the time to get some of the gear you've always coveted. Match your gear with your bike and even get your helmet customized to fit your style and personality.
Don't get so caught up in getting a whole bunch of new fancy gear for your first trip that you forget the little practical things, though. You don't want rain to catch you off guard, so make sure that you have a durable poncho with you. Bring food with you. You won't have to stop as much, which will save you time and money. When you're packing your gear, just pack like you would for a child.
Get physically fit
You will regret it if you neglect to take into account the toll that a long ride will take on your body. That is a lot of horsepower rumbling beneath you. The vibration of the bike that courses through your body and gives even more thrill to the ride wears on your muscles.
If you are considering taking a long road trip and you don't already have a workout regimen, then it is key that you begin one. There are exercise regimens for bikers that will get you into riding shape. If you hit the road and your body is not ready for the long haul, it will let you know. When fatigue sets in, it can greatly affect your ability to control your bike. Getting into riding shape will make you more safe and build your confidence as well.
As you gear up for the road, the most important things to remember are to be safe and enjoy yourself. Make sure your body and bike are up to the trip before hitting the road. Even if you do make some rookie mistakes, it's all part of growing. However, if you follow these guidelines, you can avoid many of those pitfalls.
